Commune and Memoir NYC In A Word

Commune and Memoir makes t-shirts that communicate the story of New York City through 8 different words: Galvanic, Spectral, Idyllic, Abrasive, Pervasive, Inexhaustible, Fervent, and Elusive. Seeking to elevate the city as a work of art that can be observed, interpreted and described through curated words, these t-shirts offer an alternative to images as a trip memoir. These words are derived from a vast "word collection" that the New York based brand has been assembling for years. The t-shirts are made in Peru from the highest quality Peruvian pima cotton in a factory that practices safe environment and fair labor standards. Shop the collection.

NEW YORK IN A WORD / ELUSIVE From Latin eludere 1. Hard to comprehend or define 2. Difficult to catch, find, or achieve
I chose elusive because I've always liked the sound of the word and I think that it accurately speaks to how the city is ever changing and can continually surprise you no matter how well you think you know it and when you think you do, there is still more to discover. NYC really has such a unique energy in this regard. This t-shirt has a modern, minimalist graphic feel so I choose to go simple and classic with my styling, pairing it with lightly distressed jeans, sleek neutral sneakers, cat eye tortoise sunglasses and a rose gold wood chronograph watch. So what do you think of this look? Is there a word you would use to describe where you live?T-shirt: c/o Commune & Memoir // Jeans : Gap Girlfriend (I love this fit!) // Sneakers: New Balance for J. Crew 620 // Sunglasses: Sedgwick c/o Classic Specs (review) // Watch: Sidney c/o JORD Wood Watch (review)Disclosure: A shirt was gifted to me for editorial consideration. No other compensation was provided and all opinions are my own.

42 comments

How fun! NYC is definitely elusive as it's always changing and so ephemeral. It's so different e/ moment in time. I think I would go for the Pervasive shirt, as once you land there it just kind of seeps into your bones.. the energy, the loneliness even... just everything.

I love the concept of the collection! I've never been to NYC, so I don't exactly know how I would describe the place, except for "I really want to go to the city." (Which isn't exactly a description, ha!) I think you've styled it wonderfully, too; it's laid back, very city chic!

Very interesting to read how a New Yorker would define New York! Elusive would not have been the word that I'd have picked but then again, I haven't spent as much time there as you have. Love the look you created. I'd feel comfy wearing it. Have a lovely week.

I have never been to NY but I would have picked that tee too. I love the fact that it is ensuring environmental and fair labor standards. I would love to see you wear that outfit Rowena. Looks very cool :D Happy Monday!

Oh this is very fun and interesting Rowena, I like the message the brand spread through this project. I never visited NYC but probably Id picked your same word. The tee is very nice and I can see how soft it looks. Plus, I easily imagine you with this outfit and looks super pretty!:) Many kisses! xo

so basic but so perfect! I absolutely love this minimalist look. Great styling! Nice concept behind the brand you presented. I do think you selected a great tshirt to describe NY. Elusive is a word that always sounded magical to me...perhaps because it is often used to describe snow leopard and other fabulous creatures (animals and humans) that are a bit people shy or withdrawn in their own world.

HI ROWENA!!!! :D Great post - I think you described NYC really interestingly. I've been there a couple times (actually going there again this Friday). Love the outfit, and the shirt is so pretty! And simple! Something I'd wear hehe.Junniku blog!

Unfortunately I can't call the place I live "elusive"... so I definitely agree with you on NYC, Rowena! Just love the contrast of NY's unique energy and the minimalistic style of Commune & Memoir's black shirt. Beautiful photo, Rowena!!

NYC Definitely should be an interesting city to visit and explore, they say that a trip is not enough that you will return again and again, I liked the combination that did reflect the spirit of NYC. Kisses Rowena!

The outfit is chic, comfy and looks sooo good! Just my style! I like how you described NYC, it's a city I have always wanted to visit. Even to live in, but I am not sure if I would bear with its size. I meet a lot of familiar faces here in my city, which, in my opinion, won't happen in NYC. I'd describe Sofia as inspiring, full of hidden places to eat or just walk around, full of positive young people and the best places to have a beer outside (yes, it's not illegal to drink beer or alcohol outside). :)